Pulse of The Poeple: Appointing Tony Magnetto is a good move

Wow! I disagree with my good friend Jim Franco's belief that the appointment of Tony Magnetto as police commissioner by Mayor Lou Rosamilia is political in nature. A favor to the Police Benevolent Association, which supported Rosamilia's Democratic run in 2011. The accusation is disturbing, to say the least, and I am thankful we are able to express opinions in newspaper features such as Pulse of the People.

So, I'd like to offer a few public words of praise to Rosamilia. He feels the upsurge of crime in the city is indicative that changes in the department need to continue.

"This isn't about politics," he stresses. "It's about public safety." And apparently he assessed Police Chief John Tedesco (who describes himself as a Republican police chief) for a good year before choosing Tony for the position.

I sang the praises of Tony in a Pulse of the People letter back on June 14, 2011, when he was feted on his retirement from the force. An outstanding law enforcement officer for more than three decades, indeed. Very learned, intelligent and articulate. And I feel he still has it all and eager to display this ability and talent as police commissioner.

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When the appointment of police commissioner was being debated, I approached a number of highly regarded officers -- really good ones -- and noted that I had voiced my support for Tony to the mayor and Democratic Councilwoman Nina Nicholas, who chairs the Public Safety Committee. I can honestly say the response from all was the same -- support for Tony and looking forward to working for him.

Whoa now! I cannot help notice that Republican Councilman Mark McGrath is on the same page with Jim Franco about the appointment -- "payback to the PBA," he insists. The disturbing aspect of this for me is that he did not address problems in parts of his district -- simply violations and infractions such as extreme litter, curfew, recycling and nuisance enforcement -- when they were brought to his attention in early stages and before deterioration of some lovely areas.

And I know McGrath was aware that these issues were also brought to the attention (documented) of a couple of distinguished officers who were in a position to make a difference but blatantly and brazenly dismissed them. Come to think of it, Tony Magnetto, realist that he is, was sharp enough to realize that valid complaints were not being properly addressed.

Yes, many of us are pleased with Tony's appointment as police commissioner. Hopefully, as Nina Nichols says, "This is a new day and a new page for Troy."